The Iowa State University Merit Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students to pursue undergraduate studies in the United States. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and outstanding talent, providing financial support to deserving students.

The Iowa State University Merit Scholarships are now open for interested and qualified students who are eligible to study in the United States of America.
The scholarship is an award of up to $40,000 to successful candidates who have been offered admission and will not be receiving financial sponsorship through their home country’s government for four (4) years.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Merit-based undergraduate scholarship |
| Eligibility | International students with admission offer from Iowa State University |
| Benefits | Up to $40,000 (Award of Achievement) or up to $16,000 (Award of Distinction) |
| Application Deadline | November 15, 2025 (for Spring term), May 1, 2025 (for Fall term priority deadline) |
| Host University | Iowa State University, United States |
Facts About the Scholarship
- Award Amount: Up to $40,000 for Award of Achievement and up to $16,000 for Award of Distinction.
- Eligibility Criteria: Students must be international, have an admission offer, and not receive financial sponsorship from their home government.
- GPA Requirement: Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Credit Requirement: Continuous enrollment in at least 12 semester credits per semester is required.
- Application Process: Submit the General Application and International Students Admission Scholarship Application through the OneApp portal.
- Required Documents: Application form, academic transcripts, and two recommendation letters.
- Scholarship Duration: Funding for up to 8 semesters or completion of the degree, whichever comes first.
- Fields of Study: All fields are eligible, including STEM, arts, and community service.
- University Reputation: Iowa State University is known for excellence in science, technology, and innovation.
- Research Opportunities: Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and innovation centers ¹ ².
Details For 2025 Iowa State University Merit Scholarship
Iowa State is committed to enrolling a diverse and talented student population through its Iowa State University Merit Scholarship Program.
The International Merit Scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated strong academic achievement, and outstanding talent or achievements in one or more of the following areas: math and sciences, the arts, extracurricular activities, community service, leadership, innovation, or entrepreneurship.
Known worldwide for excellence in science and technology, discovery, and innovation, Iowa State is home to the world’s first electronic digital computer, tornado simulator, high-resolution virtual reality lab, and much more
Requirements For 2025 Iowa State University Merit Scholarship
To be considered for the Iowa State University Scholarships, you must:
- Not receiving financial sponsorship through their home country’s government are eligible for this award.
- Be an international student
- Have been offered admission
The following criteria must be met during your Iowa State career to maintain the scholarship:
- Minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 while enrolled at Iowa State
- Continuous enrollment in a minimum of 12 semester credits each semester (summers not included)
- Only students assessed non-resident tuition are eligible for this award
- The award may only be used toward undergraduate tuition and fees
Duration and Rewards For 2025 Iowa State University Merit Scholarship
| International Merit Scholarship (Spring and Fall) | Amount |
| Award of Achievement | Up to $40,000 ($5,000/yr–$10,000/yr) |
| Award of Distinction | Up to $16,000 ($2,000/yr–$4,000/yr) |
*Freshman recipients will be funded for a maximum of 8 semesters, or completion of the degree, whichever comes first.
Required Documents For 2025 Iowa State University Merit Scholarship
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- Application Form
- Academic transcripts
- Two Recommendation Letters
How To Apply For 2025 Iowa State University Merit Scholarship
To apply for the Iowa State University Merit Scholarships, interested and qualified applicants should;
- To apply for the International Merit Scholarship go to the OneApp Scholarship Portal
- Submit the General Application; then navigate to Opportunities > Recommended > International Students Admission Scholarship Application (Choose spring or fall) and apply.
- Click on the button below to commence your application.
- The Application Deadline is November 15, 2025
Source: https://www.iastate.edu/